Rituals of Tamil Nadu, a South Indian state are popular in the state where the people living there are religiously inclined. Rituals have a separate identity and should not be confused with the notions of rites, rituals, totemic ideas and myths, which are of separate categories.

Features of Rituals of Tamil Nadu
These rituals of Tamil Nadu are recurrent, cyclical and linked with important activities like hunting, healing, etc. A ritual is an anticipation of the future and dropping out of the ordinary flow of time.

Creativity in the Rituals of Tamil Nadu
Rituals of Tamil Nadu are intentional and a specially organized Veriyatal is a ritual which helped the Tamils of that epoch to take an unbelievable dive into a highest level of creativity.

Generations of Rituals and its Evolution
The later generations of Tamil Nadu population perceived it as a truly artistic image. Subsequent expansion of the content (sense and meaning) testify to its potential as an art-form. The women then join the ranks of male-dancers and they are known as `Anakuru Makalir`.

Dance in the Rituals of Tamil Nadu
The ritualistic dance of Tamil Nadu gestures largely resembled the hops and trots of cattle. Yet, it is suggestive of the sense for the beautiful mechanism of perception and the specificity of the creative process. Male dancers are Kuttarpirar and the lady artist is Virali. Silappathikaram refers to four varieties - Satthuvati, Arapatai, Kaisiki and Bharati. Veriyatal is included under the category of Satthuvati.

`Kuravai` In Tamil Nadu"s Rituals
The continuation of the dance-process is noticeable in `Kuravai`. Sangam anthologies do mention the Kuravai dance. Maduraikkanchi refers to Munrutoru ninra Kuravai performed in public places. Kuravai dances are associated with war-operations during Silappathikaram days. A victorious king is joined by soldiers and they dance on the deck of the king`s chariot (Munter Kuravai). A victorious king is followed by war-heroes and Viraliyar, who dance as a group hailing the victory (Pinter Kuravai). These are spontaneous expressions of joy and happiness over victory. Music (composition) praised the valorous deeds of the king. The quantum of art content is open to debate. The rhythm must have been brisk, limb movements fast, and the tune must have matched the tempo. The sound of war-drums (Murasu) created the necessary atmosphere.